Our website uses cookies to improve your experience. To find out more including how to change your settings, please see our Privacy Policy
READ CATALOGUE
TRACK MY ORDER
READ CATALOGUE
TRACK MY ORDER
BCF
BCF
Find a Store Your Store BCF Hervey Bay
null
Login / Join Your Store BCF Hervey Bay

LOGIN / JOIN

Login Join
  • Boating
    Boats & Motors
    • Petrol Motors
    • Electric Motors
    • Accessories
    Maintenance
    • Marine Oil
    • Marine Grease
    • Marine Additives
    • Wash & Polish
    • Lubricants
    • Tape
    • Adhesives & Fillers
    Boat Fit-Out
    • Bait Boards
    • Rod Holders
    • Boat Tank & Aerators
    • Seats & Pedestals
    • Anchors & Docking
    • Biminis & Launchers
    • Boat Covers
    • Pumps & Plumbing
    • Boat Lighting
    • Electrical
    • Switch Panels
    • Marine Batteries
    • Rigging
    • Hardware & Extras
    • Boat Letters
    • Fasteners
    • Marine Carpet
    Safety
    • Life Jackets (PFD)
    • Flares
    • Epirb
    • PLB
    • Fire Extinguishers
    • Signalling Devices
    • Buckets & Bailers
    • Oars & Paddles
    • Compass
    • Accessories
    Electronics
    • Fishfinders
    • Chartplotters
    • Combos
    • Transducers
    • Communications
    • Handheld GPS
    • Audio Visual
    Trailer
    • Winches
    • Jockey Wheels
    • Lights
    • Rollers
    • Parts
    • Accessories
    • Tie-Downs
    First Aid & Sun Safety
    New In
    BCF Boating

    New In

    Online Exclusives

    Clearance

    Shop All Boating

    Buyers Guides

    • Choosing the Right Life Jacket
    • Selecting an Electric Motor
    • Selecting the Correct Anchor
    • Boats & Motors
      • Petrol Motors
      • Electric Motors
      • Accessories
    • Maintenance
      • Marine Oil
      • Marine Grease
      • Marine Additives
      • Wash & Polish
      • Lubricants
      • Tape
      • Adhesives & Fillers
    • Boat Fit-Out
      • Bait Boards
      • Rod Holders
      • Boat Tank & Aerators
      • Seats & Pedestals
      • Anchors & Docking
      • Biminis & Launchers
      • Boat Covers
      • Pumps & Plumbing
      • Boat Lighting
      • Electrical
      • Switch Panels
      • Marine Batteries
      • Rigging
      • Hardware & Extras
      • Boat Letters
      • Fasteners
      • Marine Carpet
    • Safety
      • Life Jackets (PFD)
      • Flares
      • Epirb
      • PLB
      • Fire Extinguishers
      • Signalling Devices
      • Buckets & Bailers
      • Oars & Paddles
      • Compass
      • Accessories
    • Electronics
      • Fishfinders
      • Chartplotters
      • Combos
      • Transducers
      • Communications
      • Handheld GPS
      • Audio Visual
    • Trailer
      • Winches
      • Jockey Wheels
      • Lights
      • Rollers
      • Parts
      • Accessories
      • Tie-Downs
    • First Aid & Sun Safety
    • New In
    • New In
    • Online Exclusives
    • Clearance
    • Shop all Boating
    • Boating Buyers Guides
      • Choosing the Right Life Jacket
      • Selecting an Electric Motor
      • Selecting the Correct Anchor
  • Camping
    Bedding
    • Sleeping Bags
    • Hammocks
    • Self Inflatable
    • Air Beds
    • Foam Bedding
    • Camping Stretchers
    • Repair Kits & Acc
    • Air Pumps
    Tents
    • Touring Tents
    • Dome Tents
    • Hiking Tents
    • Family Tents
    • Instant and Fast Pitching Tents
    • Pop Up Tents
    • Canvas Tents
    • Swags & Cots
    • Shower & Ensuite Tents
    • Tarps
    • Poles, Pegs, Guy Ropes
    Gazebos and Shade
    • Gazebos and Shade
    • Beach Shade
    • Shelter Acc & Parts
    Safety & Protection
    • First Aid & Sun Safety
    • Water Filter & Additives
    • Insect Protection
    Camp Furniture
    • Camping Chairs
    • Camp Lounges
    • Camp Stools
    • Beach / Event Chairs
    • Camp Tables
    • Carts & Wagons
    • Kitchen / Stove Stands
    • Wardrobe & Cupboards
    • Kids Camping Chairs
    Fridges & Coolers
    • Iceboxes & Soft Coolers
    • Travel Cooler & Warmers
    • Fridge & Cooler Accessories
    • Fridge Freezers
    • Fridge Covers & Slides
    • Ice Bricks & Packs
    Cooking
    • Cookware
    • Cooking Utensils
    • Pots, Pans, & Billie
    • Food & Snacks
    • Camp Ovens
    Gas & Fuel Appliances
    • Gas Bottles
    • Gas Hoses & Fittings
    • Portable Stoves & BBQs
    • Lantern Glasses & Mantles
    • Gas Light & Heat
    • Fire Starters & Fuel
    • Gas Spare Parts
    • Stove & BBQ Accessories
    Hiking Gear & Packs
    • Daypacks
    • Duffle Bags
    • Hiking & Travel Packs
    • Dry Bags
    • Hydration Packs
    • Hiking Accessories
    • Hiking Boots & Socks
    • Hiking Poles
    • Hiking Clothing
    • Hiking Food & Stoves
    • Hiking Sleeping
    Toilet & Shower
    • Portable Toilets & Chemicals
    • Camping Showers
    • Water Heaters & Pumps
    • Wash Accessories
    Camping Storage
    • Plastic Storage
    • Water Storage
    Tableware
    • Kitchenware
    • Melamine
    • Drinkware
    • Food Storage
    • Party / Picnic
    Power & Household Batteries
    • Generators
    • Power Inverters
    • Solar Power
    • Household Batteries
    • Power Accessories
    Lighting
    • Torches
    • Camping Lanterns
    • Spot & Worklights
    • Headlamps
    • Appliances
    • Electrical Parts & Acc
    Camping Hardware
    • Knives & Multitools
    • Binoculars
    • Metal Detectors
    Gadgets & Gear
    • Games & Gifts
    New In
    Camping Buyers Guide
    • Choose The Best Swag
    • Choose The Best Gazebo
    • Bedding
      • Sleeping Bags
      • Hammocks
      • Self Inflatable
      • Air Beds
      • Foam Bedding
      • Camping Stretchers
      • Repair Kits & Acc
      • Air Pumps
    • Tents
      • Touring Tents
      • Dome Tents
      • Hiking Tents
      • Family Tents
      • Instant and Fast Pitching Tents
      • Pop Up Tents
      • Canvas Tents
      • Swags & Cots
      • Shower & Ensuite Tents
      • Tarps
      • Poles, Pegs, Guy Ropes
    • Gazebos and Shade
      • Gazebos and Shade
      • Beach Shade
      • Shelter Acc & Parts
    • Safety & Protection
      • First Aid & Sun Safety
      • Water Filter & Additives
      • Insect Protection
    • Camp Furniture
      • Camping Chairs
      • Camp Lounges
      • Camp Stools
      • Beach / Event Chairs
      • Camp Tables
      • Carts & Wagons
      • Kitchen / Stove Stands
      • Wardrobe & Cupboards
      • Kids Camping Chairs
    • Fridges & Coolers
      • Iceboxes & Soft Coolers
      • Travel Cooler & Warmers
      • Fridge & Cooler Accessories
      • Fridge Freezers
      • Fridge Covers & Slides
      • Ice Bricks & Packs
    • Cooking
      • Cookware
      • Cooking Utensils
      • Pots, Pans, & Billie
      • Food & Snacks
      • Camp Ovens
    • Gas & Fuel Appliances
      • Gas Bottles
      • Gas Hoses & Fittings
      • Portable Stoves & BBQs
      • Lantern Glasses & Mantles
      • Gas Light & Heat
      • Fire Starters & Fuel
      • Gas Spare Parts
      • Stove & BBQ Accessories
    • Hiking Gear & Packs
      • Daypacks
      • Duffle Bags
      • Hiking & Travel Packs
      • Dry Bags
      • Hydration Packs
      • Hiking Accessories
      • Hiking Boots & Socks
      • Hiking Poles
      • Hiking Clothing
      • Hiking Food & Stoves
      • Hiking Sleeping
    • Toilet & Shower
      • Portable Toilets & Chemicals
      • Camping Showers
      • Water Heaters & Pumps
      • Wash Accessories
    • Camping Storage
      • Plastic Storage
      • Water Storage
    • Tableware
      • Kitchenware
      • Melamine
      • Drinkware
      • Food Storage
      • Party / Picnic
    • Power & Household Batteries
      • Generators
      • Power Inverters
      • Solar Power
      • Household Batteries
      • Power Accessories
    • Lighting
      • Torches
      • Camping Lanterns
      • Spot & Worklights
      • Headlamps
      • Appliances
      • Electrical Parts & Acc
    • Camping Hardware
      • Knives & Multitools
      • Binoculars
      • Metal Detectors
    • Gadgets & Gear
      • Games & Gifts
    • New In
    • Camping Buyers Guide
      • Choose The Best Swag
      • Choose The Best Gazebo
    Get some new Gear
  • Fishing
    Fishing Rods
    • Spinning Rods
    • Baitcaster Rods
    • Overhead Rods
    • Telescopic Rods
    • Surf Rods
    • Rod Building
    • Rod Accessories
    Fishing Reels
    • Spinning Reels
    • Baitcaster Reels
    • Overhead Reels
    • Alvey Reels
    • Hand Reels
    • Reel Accessories
    Combos
    • Spinning Combos
    • Baitcaster Combos
    • Overhead Combos
    • Surf Combos
    • Kids Combos
    Line
    • Mono Line
    • Braid Line
    • Fly Line
    • Wire Line & Trace
    • Leader Lines
    Nets, Gaffs And Pumps
    • Nets & Traps
    • Gaffs & Tagpoles
    • Bait Pumps
    • Landing Nets
    • Cast Nets
    Fishing Storage
    • Tackle Boxes
    • Bags & Wallets
    • Rod Storage
    Fishing Apparel
    • Fishing Waders
    Fishing Tackle
    • Sinkers & Moulds
    • Floats
    • Lights & Bells
    • Rigs
    • Hooks
    • Swivels & Snaps
    • Terminal Tackle Accessories
    • Tackle Kits
    Fishing Tools
    • Fishing Pliers & Scissors
    • Fishing Knives & Sharpeners
    • Lip Grips & Scales
    • Misc Tools & Accessories
    All Lures
    • Hard Body Lures
    • Soft Plastic Lures
    • Jig Heads
    • Metal Lures
    • Skirted Lures
    • Spinner Bait Lures
    • Squid Jigs
    • Flies
    • Inline Spinners
    • Jig Lures
    • Surface Lures
    • Blades & Vibes
    • Lure Accessories
    • Burley
    • Bait & Burley Acc
    Spear Fishing Gear
    • Fins
    • Mask and Snorkel
    • Spear Guns & Accessories
    Media
    • Maps / Charts / Guides
    • Magazines
    • Books
    • DVD's
    Giftware
    Fishing Tech

    New In

    Shop By Species

    Clearance

    Shop All Fishing

    Buyers Guides

    • Braid Or Mono? Which one is right for you?
    • Bread & Butter Fishing
    • Fishing Rods
      • Spinning Rods
      • Baitcaster Rods
      • Overhead Rods
      • Telescopic Rods
      • Surf Rods
      • Rod Building
      • Rod Accessories
    • Fishing Reels
      • Spinning Reels
      • Baitcaster Reels
      • Overhead Reels
      • Alvey Reels
      • Hand Reels
      • Reel Accessories
    • Combos
      • Spinning Combos
      • Baitcaster Combos
      • Overhead Combos
      • Surf Combos
      • Kids Combos
    • Line
      • Mono Line
      • Braid Line
      • Fly Line
      • Wire Line & Trace
      • Leader Lines
    • Nets, Gaffs And Pumps
      • Nets & Traps
      • Gaffs & Tagpoles
      • Bait Pumps
      • Landing Nets
      • Cast Nets
    • Fishing Storage
      • Tackle Boxes
      • Bags & Wallets
      • Rod Storage
    • Fishing Apparel
      • Fishing Waders
    • Fishing Tackle
      • Sinkers & Moulds
      • Floats
      • Lights & Bells
      • Rigs
      • Hooks
      • Swivels & Snaps
      • Terminal Tackle Accessories
      • Tackle Kits
    • Fishing Tools
      • Fishing Pliers & Scissors
      • Fishing Knives & Sharpeners
      • Lip Grips & Scales
      • Misc Tools & Accessories
    • All Lures
      • Hard Body Lures
      • Soft Plastic Lures
      • Jig Heads
      • Metal Lures
      • Skirted Lures
      • Spinner Bait Lures
      • Squid Jigs
      • Flies
      • Inline Spinners
      • Jig Lures
      • Surface Lures
      • Blades & Vibes
      • Lure Accessories
      • Burley
      • Bait & Burley Acc
    • Spear Fishing Gear
      • Fins
      • Mask and Snorkel
      • Spear Guns & Accessories
    • Media
      • Maps / Charts / Guides
      • Magazines
      • Books
    • Giftware
    • Fishing Tech
    • New In
    • Shop By Species
    • Clearance
    • Shop all Fishing
    • Fishing Buyers Guides
      • Braid Or Mono?
      • Bread & Butter Fishing
  • Watersports
    Watersports
    • Bodyboards & Kneeboards
    • Tow Tubes
    • SUP Boards & Accessories
    • Snorkelling
    • Wetsuits
    • Beach & Pool
    Kayaks
    • Recreational Kayaks
    • Fishing Kayaks
    • Kids Kayaks
    • Kayak Accessories
    Watersports

    Selecting a Kayak

    Read more
    Hints & Tips

    Watersport Hints & Tips

    Read more
    • Watersports
      • Bodyboards & Kneeboards
      • Tow Tubes
      • SUP Boards & Accessories
      • Snorkelling
      • Wetsuits
      • Beach & Pool
    • Kayaks
      • Recreational Kayaks
      • Fishing Kayaks
      • Kids Kayaks
      • Kayak Accessories
  • 4WD & Caravan
    Caravan
    • Towing
    • Levelling
    • Plumbing
    • Electrical
    • Accessories
    4WD
    • Communications
    • Recovery Gear
    • Spotlights and Light Bars
    • Battery Boxes & Accessories
    • Air Compressors
    • Tyre Maintenance
    • Fuel Containers
    • 4WD Awnings
    • Roof Racks
    • Tools
    Navigation & Communication
    • UHF Communication
    • Navigation
    Maps & Books
    • Maps, Books & Guides
    • Magazines & DVD's
    Services

    Gas Refills

    Read more
    Services

    CUSTOM MADE MATTRESSES

    Read more
    • Caravan
      • Towing
      • Levelling
      • Plumbing
      • Electrical
      • Accessories
    • 4WD
      • Communications
      • Recovery Gear
      • Spotlights and Light Bars
      • Battery Boxes & Accessories
      • Air Compressors
      • Tyre Maintenance
      • Fuel Containers
      • 4WD Awnings
      • Roof Racks
      • Tools
    • Navigation & Communication
      • UHF Communication
      • Navigation
    • Maps & Books
      • Maps, Books & Guides
      • Magazines & DVD's
    New To BCF
  • Clothing & Footwear
    Mens Clothing
    • Fishing Shirts & Polos
    • Shirts & Tops
    • Pants & Shorts
    • Thermals
    • Jackets & Fleece
    • Rainwear
    • Headwear
    • Ski Wear
    • Underwear
    Mens Footwear
    • Sandals & Thongs
    • Casual Shoes
    • Water Shoes
    • Socks
    Womens Clothing
    • Fishing Shirts & Polos
    • Shirts & Tops
    • Pants & Shorts
    • Thermals
    • Rainwear
    • Headwear
    • Ski Wear
    Womens Footwear
    • Sandals & Thongs
    • Casual Shoes
    • Water Shoes
    • Socks
    Kids Clothing
    • Fishing Shirts & Polos
    • Thermals
    • Rainwear
    • Headwear
    • Ski Wear
    Kids Footwear
    • Sandals & Thongs
    • Water Shoes
    Sunglasses
    • Sunnies
    • Sunglasses Strap
    Accessories
    • Hats
    • Scarves
    BCF Clothing & Footwear

    New In

    Clearance

    Shop All Clothing & Footwear

    • Mens Clothing
      • Fishing Shirts & Polos
      • Shirts & Tops
      • Pants & Shorts
      • Thermals
      • Jackets & Fleece
      • Rainwear
      • Headwear
      • Ski Wear
      • Underwear
    • Mens Footwear
      • Sandals & Thongs
      • Casual Shoes
      • Water Shoes
      • Socks
    • Womens Clothing
      • Fishing Shirts & Polos
      • Shirts & Tops
      • Pants & Shorts
      • Thermals
      • Rainwear
      • Headwear
      • Ski Wear
    • Womens Footwear
      • Sandals & Thongs
      • Casual Shoes
      • Water Shoes
    • Kids Clothing
      • Fishing Shirts & Polos
      • Thermals
      • Rainwear
      • Headwear
    • Kids Footwear
      • Sandals & Thongs
      • Water Shoes
    • Sunglasses
      • Sunnies
      • Sunglasses Strap
    • Accessories
      • Hats
      • Scarves
    • New In
    • Clearance
    • Shop all Clothing & Footwear
  • Brands
    A
    B
    C
    D
    E
    F
    G
    H
    I
    J
    K
    L
    M
    N
    O
    P
    Q
    R
    S
    T
    U
    V
    W
    X
    Y
    Z
    #
    A
    Abu Garcia
    Adrenalin
    Aerial
    AFL
    AFN
    All 4 Adventure
    Alvey
    Ampfibian
    Arbogast
    Ark
    Asari
    Atlantic
    Atomic
    Atsko
    Australian Crafted Lures
    Autotecnica
    B
    Back Country
    Bagley
    Barnett
    Bassman
    Battery Link
    BCF
    Berkley
    Bestway
    Bill Norman
    BLA
    Black Magic
    Blackwolf
    Blueline
    Bluesteel
    Bomber
    Booyah
    Bowline
    Bundaberg Rum
    Bushmans
    Bushnell
    C
    Camec
    Camelbak
    Campfire
    CAMPMASTER
    Cargo Mate
    Caribee
    Century
    Champion
    Charmate
    Chasebaits
    Chubb
    Citer
    Classic
    COI Leisure
    Coleman
    Columbia
    Companion
    CRC
    Croakies
    Crocs
    D
    Daiwa
    Diggers
    Dometic
    Dorcy
    Dragon
    Dr Air
    Dri Screen
    DUO
    E
    Eastener
    Ecogear
    Elemental
    Energizer
    Engel
    Escape Outdoors
    Evakool
    Export
    F
    Fifty/Fifty
    Fins
    Fish
    Fish and Boat
    Frostbite
    Fuji
    Fuse Audio
    Fusion
    G
    Gamakatsu
    Gangster
    Garmin
    Gasmate
    Gerber
    Gillies
    Glide
    GME
    Go Girl
    Gotcha
    Great Northern Brewing Co
    Gripwell
    Gulp
    H
    Haigh
    Halco
    Hansa
    Hatcher
    Hayman Reese
    Heat Beads
    Hema Maps
    Hobie
    I
    Icekool
    Igloo
    Inox
    Interworld
    Intex
    J
    Jabsco
    Jackall
    Jarvis Marine
    Jarvis Walker
    JBL
    JJs
    Johnson Outdoors
    Jolly Swagman
    K
    Katadyn
    Kato
    Killalure
    Kookaburra
    Korr
    KT Cables
    L
    Land & Sea Sports
    Leatherman
    LED Auto Lamps
    LED Lenser
    Life Gear
    Life Jacket
    Life Straw
    Lifetime
    Light My Fire
    Liive Vision
    Lowrance
    Lucky Craft
    M
    Mad Hueys
    MagicEzy
    Magnifeye
    Mako
    Mares
    Marlin Australia
    Marttiini
    Mason
    Maxima
    Maxtrax
    Mayo
    Minelab
    Minn Kota
    Mirage
    Murray Monsters
    Mustad
    N
    National Geographic
    Navionics
    Neptune
    Nite Ize
    Nomad
    NRL
    O
    Oar Gee
    Orcon
    Oricom
    Outdoor Expedition
    Outdoor Gourmet Company
    Outrak
    Owner
    Ozpig
    Oztent
    Oztrail
    P
    Palm
    Parsun
    Penn
    Pioneer
    Plano
    Platypus
    Poles Apart
    Power Pro
    Primus
    Pro-Cure
    PRO QUIP
    Prorack
    Pryml
    Q
    QFM
    Quell
    Quiksilver
    R
    Rapala
    RAPTOR LURES
    Reidy's
    RFD
    Richter
    Ripple
    River2Sea
    RMG
    Rogue
    Roman
    Roothy
    Rovex
    Rule
    S
    Salt Away
    Samaki
    Savage Gear
    SCA
    Scepter
    Schneider
    Sea Dog
    Sea To Summit
    Selleys
    Septone
    Shakespeare
    Shimano
    Silstar
    Slime
    Smilin Jacks
    Solution X
    Spearo
    Spotters
    Springfield
    Squidgies
    STA-BIL
    Starlite
    Staun
    Stimulate
    Stingray
    Stoney Creek
    Storm
    Sufix
    Sunline
    Sunprotection Australia
    Supapeg
    SureCatch
    Surf Life Saving
    Swim Sportz
    Swivels Original
    T
    Tackleback
    Tackle Tactics Lures
    Tahwalhi
    Thermos
    Thetford
    Tide Apparel
    Tradie
    U
    Under Armour
    V
    Verao
    Victorinox
    W
    Waeco
    Wanderer
    Watersnake
    Waxworks
    Weber
    Wigston
    Wild Country
    Wildfish
    Willow
    Wilson
    Winchester
    X
    XTM 4x4 Accessories
    Y
    Yamashita
    Z
    Zerek
    Zman
    #
    360 Degrees

    Shop your favourite brands

    Shop Wanderer
    Shop Lowrance
    Shop coleman
    Shop Quiksilver
    Shop Great Northern
    Shop Under Armour
    Shop Shimano
    Shop Savage Gear
    Shop Daiwa
    Shop Mad Hueys
    Shop XTM
    Shop Dometic
  • Sale
    Catalogue Sale
    • Shop All
    • Club Price
    • Bonus Buys & Packs
    • 4x4 & Caravan - Catalogue
    • Dive into Big Brands - Catalogue

    Shop by category

    • Boating
    • Camping
    • Fishing
    • Watersports
    • 4WD & Caravan
    • Clothing & Footwear

    4X4 AND CARAVAN GALORE

    • Wanderer Maverick 7 Position Chair $74.99
    • XTM 4x4 Self Inflatable Mat Single $69.99
    • XTM 4x4 Single Swag $159.99
    • XTM Black Recovery Boards $109.99
    • XTM Car Awning 2m x 2.5m $139.99

    READ CATALOGUE

    READ CATALOGUE
    • Catalogue Sale
      • Shop All
      • Club Price
      • Bonus Buys & Packs
    • Shop by Category
      • Boating
      • Camping
      • Fishing
      • 4WD & Caravan
      • Watersports
      • Clothing & Apparel
  • Featured
    In-store Services
    Price Guarantee
    Shop By Species
    Oz Fish - Powered by BCF

    NEW TO BCF

    • Boating
    • Camping
    • Fishing
    • 4WD & Caravan
    • Watersports
    • Clothing & Apparel

    Trending

    • CHECK OUT OUR BCFING COMMERCIAL!
    • A4A 'HOOKED ON ARNHEM LAND'
    • OFF THE GRID WITH THE BADGER

    FEATURED BRAND

    FEATURED BRAND
    • In-store Services
    • Price Guarantee
    • Shop By Species
    • Oz Fish - Powered by BCF
    • Shop by Category
      • Boating
      • Camping
      • Fishing
      • 4WD & Caravan
      • Watersports
      • Clothing & Apparel
    • Featured Products
      • Wanderer Ultimate 3x3 Gazebo
      • Weber Baby Q
      • Maxtrax Recovery Tracks
      • XTM 4X4 Double Swag
  • EXPERT TIPS
CATALOGUE - OUT NOW
CONTACT FREE CLICK & COLLECT - READY IN 2 HOURS
Price Guarantee* - We'll Match It
FREE SHIPPING OVER $99 - METRO & REGIONAL*
CONTACT FREE CLICK & COLLECT - READY IN 2 HRS
FREE SHIPPING OVER $99 - METRO & REGIONAL*
Price Guarantee* - We'll Match It
Need Help?
Loading
Be a BCFing Expert Fishing Buyers Guide Choosing the right spin reel
Buyers Guide

Choosing the right spin reel

Choosing the right spinning reel for fishing is important, to not only balance your outfit, but to give yourself the best chance to reel in whatever you hook up to.

19 February 2021

Facebook Twitter Pinterest Email

Author: Nige Webster

Choosing the right spinning reel is a critical aspect to balance your rod and reel combo. Not only do you want something comfortable to hold for the duration of your session, but you want to make sure it will be capable of handling your target species when it jumps on the line.

When choosing the right reel, it’s a little bit of a ‘chicken and egg’ situation, because of course, you need to pair it to the right rod. But which one do you choose first? If you’re going to be buying both, it should be done at the same time, where you’ll have the opportunity to try the reel on the rod and see how it feels in the hand.

With so many considerations around brand, price, line rating, line capacity, drag system, gear ratio, construction material, warranty and more, it can be difficult to know where to begin, so let’s take a look at what you need to know when choosing your next spinning reel.

What are spinning reels

Depending on where you live or what era you were born in, spinning reels can also be referred to as threadline, open-face or egg beaters. While the latter is a strange term, it makes sense when you consider the motion of an egg beater when its handle is turned and the similarity to a spinning reel.

Regardless of what you call them, spinning reels are extremely versatile and popular among anglers in Australia and across the globe, for species both big and small.

Great for beginners, spinning reels are easier to cast and use than baitcaster reels, and less likely to cause tangles.

Spinning reels use a bail arm that wraps line onto the spool when closed and allows it to free spool once the bail arm is open, ready for the line to be cast. For that to happen, you simply pinch the line close to the bail arm, flick it open and release your finger off the line once your rod reaches the highest point of the casting motion.

Once your bait or lure hits the water and you’ve allowed it to sink (unless using a floating presentation), line will continue to free fall off the spool until you flick the bail arm back over. Once closed, you can then begin to retrieve line by turning the reel’s handle.

Spinning reels are also adorned by adjustable drag knobs which allow you to tighten or loosen the amount of pressure required to pull line off the spool. But more on that later.

Spin Reel Illustration

Spinning reel sizes

Spinning reel sizes are typically expressed as numbers in the thousands (1000, 25000. 4000 etc.); however, each manufacturer rates their reels differently, so there are no hard and fast rules regarding size and line capacity. There is however consistency around reel sizes and typical applications that you should be aware of.

Numbers & applications

  • 1000 to 3500: this is your smallest spinning reel range and are typically matched with lightweight rods in the 5 to 7ft rods. These reels are best suited to finesse applications, where light lines (2 to 10lb) are required. This range is especially popular among light lure anglers fishing in the shallows of the salt and rivers and streams for abundant freshwater species.
  • Popular species chased with this spinning reel range include the likes of trout, redfin, perch, squid, flathead, whiting etc.

  • 4000 to 5500: medium spinning reels are extremely versatile and can be used by both bait and lure anglers chasing reef species, pelagics, barramundi, etc. These reels are best matched with 6 to 7ft rods and lines from 8 to 30 lb.
  • 6000 to 9500: medium to big spinning reels can be used across various applications including surf fishing, reef fishing for scrappy fighters and rock fishing. Line weights can be anywhere from 10 to 50lb and these reels need to be paired with medium to heavy rods.
  • 10,000-plus: extra large spinning reels are typically used in situations where long casts and a lot of line is required. Surf fishing and offshore requires both and this is where 10,000-plus size reels come into their own. Fishing for big reef brawlers such as GTs will often see big spin reels employed.

Choosing the right reel size

The right spinning reel size can typically be determined by the type of fishing and species you intend to target. Keep in mind too that reels can be used for multiple applications, so long as the line rating is applicable. As an example, a 2500 reel that is best suited to 6lb line will work just as well on trout as it will on squid.

Manufacturers will display line capacity information and suggested line weight on the reel so be sure to check that out before making your decision. Also, be sure to research your target species and find out what line rating is suggested for them and base your decisions around that.

The other thing you want to do is stick the reel on the rod you intend to pair it with to make sure it balances, rather than being too top or bottom heavy. Keep in mind that not all reels at the same size will weigh the same. This comes down to materials used in construction.

Caught Big Trout

Big trout require a 3000 sized spinning reel with a quality drag and a line capacity of at least 150 metres of braid or monofilament.

Spinning reel Body & Weight

As with most things in life, not all spinning reels are created equal. And if you’ve ever wondered why there’s such a big variation in prices, it’s because of all the components that make a spinning reel tick. They are certainly an example of something only being as good as the sum of their parts.

When it comes down to weight and feel, you need to consider what material is used to make up the reel body.

Reel bodies are typically made up of either aluminium, graphite or carbon fibre. Sometimes they will even be made up of a combination. These materials are chosen due to their lightweight nature and stiffness.

Aluminium is stronger, whereas graphite and carbon fibre are lighter in weight, so that’s something to consider if you plan to fish for long periods of time, or if you will constantly be holding the rod, such as while lure fishing.

If saltwater fishing is high on your agenda, be aware that graphite and carbon fibre are more corrosion resistant than aluminium.

If buying a spinning reel online, be sure to check out the weight of the reel and compare it to others in the same size and price range.

Reel Gear Ratio

An often overlooked, but important aspect of choosing the right spinning reel comes down to the gear ratio. For me personally, making sure I have the right gear ratio is crucial to the success of my fishing, especially when it comes to a range of lure fishing situations.

Gear ratios can be low, medium and high and are expressed as 4:1, 5:1, 6:1, 5:2:1 etc. Generally speaking, anything below 5:1 can be considered low, whereas anything above 6:1 can be considered high.

Basically, what these numbers represent is how much line is put back onto the reel with each turn of the handle.

This is important in situations such as spinning for pelagics or Australian salmon in the surf where you really need to crank a lure back at speed. In situations such as this, you want a reel with a high gear ratio to ensure each turn of the handle puts as much line back on the reel as possible.

Conversely, where you need more torque, such as reef fishing for big demersals, you can get away with a lower gear ratio.

If looking for a general-purpose reel, go for something in the mid-range, such as a 5:1 as it will suffice in most situations. On the flip side, if buying multiple reels, for different purposes, get a mix to suit your needs.

Spinning reel drag systems

One of the most important parts of a spinning reel, or any reel for that matter, is the drag system.

As mentioned above, the drag system dictates how much pressure is required for line to be pulled from the spool. It provides the all-important function of allowing the fish to pull line from the spool during the fight when enough tension is placed on the reel. It also allows us, as anglers, to determine whether we need to add or reduce pressure on a hooked fish.

If fishing for bottom species where obstacles such as reef exist, you’ll want to apply more pressure than on a fish is swimming in open water and you have time to play and tire them out.

When looking at drag systems, you want something smooth and high quality to avoid the risk of reel jams and failures while connected to fish.

Two types of drag systems exist, with those being front and rear. Most modern spinning reels tend to boast front drag systems that sit above the spool and feature multiple washers that outperform rear drag systems.

The key to maintaining a smooth drag system is avoiding salt water, dirt and sand ingress, which is what makes sealed drag systems highly sought after. The waterproof or water-resistant benefit of a sealed system is also desirable, especially in situations where it is likely that water will come into contact with the reel, such as rock or surf fishing.

Drag washers also come in different materials, with carbon fibre, metal and composite being common. After regular use, it is good practice to give them a clean, to ensure no foreign objects such as sand or dirt has come in contact with the washers.

Hooked Marlin

The preferred option now for small and medium marlin is to use a top-line spinning reel with drag capable of at least 10 kilos of drag pressure.

Spinning reels & ball bearings

One of the other key ingredients to making a spinning reel tick is ball bearings. These are found within the body and promote strength, stability and smoothness. There is also a roller bearing within the line roller.

While not always the case (cheap inferior products), the more ball bearings within a reel, the smoother it will be. But buyer beware, you do get what you pay for, and if it sounds too good to be true, it typically is.

Look for a reel with a minimum of 4 to 6 bearings and buy a reel with the most that you can afford, as the last thing you want in a new spinning reel is one that isn’t smooth on the retrieve.

Spool design

Spinning reel spools (the main barrel that the line sits on) come in various designs and are usually built from either aluminium or graphite. As above, aluminium will be stronger, yet heavier, while graphite will be lighter.

There are also differences in design from reel to reel and manufacturer to manufacturer, with depths and shapes differing. Some are shallower than others, while long cast spools are shallower and often tapered from narrower at the top to wider at the base.

Small shallow reels are great for chasing species such as squid that don’t require excessive amounts of line. They can be spooled with lines such as braid more efficiently as they will require less line to fill them up. That saves dollars. On the flip side, some spools will be deep and can hold vastly more amounts of lines than similar size reels with ‘standard’ size spools.

Speaking of braid, some spools will come ‘braid-ready’ with a rubber like band in the centre of the spool which negates the need for several wraps of monofilament to be placed on the reel prior to it being loaded with braid. Braid is ‘slippery’ and requires something to bite into to avoid slipping, whereas monofilament doesn’t.

Consider what type of fishing you will be doing and choose the most appropriate spool shape and style for your needs.

Handle it

A spinning reel’s handle may not seem all that important at first glance, but once you consider that it’s what you will be holding the majority of time, it makes sense to choose one that feels comfortable in the hand.

Different reel’s come with different shaped and sized knobs and depending on your preference, will dictate which you prefer. Some are narrow and straight while others are bulky and round. Then there’s a bunch of variation in-between. Find one that suits you best and if the reel you want doesn’t have the handle you prefer, there’s a good chance you can buy an after-market handle to suit.

Choosing a spinning reel can be as simple or complicated as you make it. At the end of the day, I suggest doing some research, talking to your local tackle store employee and buying the best you can afford. Choose reputable brands such as Shimano, Daiwa, Okuma, Savage Gear and Penn and you can’t go too wrong.

Lastly, look after it and it will look after you when that prized fish jumps on the line!

You Might Also Like

Attaching braid to your spool

22 October 2019

How to cast a Spin Reel

01 May 2020

Fish handling practices

10 October 2020

Product Recall: TAHWALHI - Outboard Bridle Rope - 581347, 580445 and 580488

Contact Free
Click & Collect

From BCF
to your boot!

Contact Free
Delivery

Spend $99
Get Free Shipping*

Club BCF

Club
BCF

Login or sign up,
it's FREE to join!

Store Locator

Find
a Store

Find your local BCF
& shop in-store

⚠ An important message for our BCF Community on COVID-19 ⚠

Ways To Shop

  • Club BCF - Free to Join
  • Price Guarantee
  • Catalogue
  • Gift Cards
  • Click & Collect
  • About Zip
  • Afterpay

Popular

  • Gas Refills
  • Boating
  • Camping
  • Fishing
  • Watersports
  • 4WD & Touring
  • Clothing & Footwear

BCF Australia

  • About us
  • Find a Store
  • Our In-Store Services
  • Ozfish - Powered by BCF
  • Privacy Policy
  • Careers
  • Terms & Conditions
  • Product Recall
  • Customer Notices

Customer Service

  • Contact Us
  • COVID-19 Latest Update
  • Help Desk
  • Track my Order
  • FAQs
  • Shipping & Delivery
  • Returns & Refunds
  • My Account
  • Payment Options

Social

  • Blog
  • Facebook
  • YouTube
  • Instagram
^DISCLAIMER: Discounts apply to most recent previous ticketed advertised price. Some products will have likely been sold below ticketed advertised price in some stores prior to the discount offer. Prices displayed inclusive of discount. Some in-store prices may vary
BCF CLEARANCE EVENT: Limited stock In-store and Online. Stock may vary from store to store. No rainchecks.
Visa Mastercard Afterpay PayPal AE Zip Pay Digicert
1300 880 764
© 2020 BCF Australia
Privacy Policy Terms & Conditions Site Map